Hopkins, CA

Aaron Hopkins, Hawthorne, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20140281926

AUTOMATIC DISPLAY OF RESIZED IMAGES - Systems and methods for automatic display of scaled and/or resized images that fit within pre-defined areas in a web browser are disclosed. The method may be implemented using an image scaling JavaScript component embedded within a HTML document. Upon resizing the a client document browser in which the document is displayed, the component is resized and requests, receives and redisplays a resized image within the resized component from a server. By having the server perform the resizing, the resized image not only fits within the resized component but also maintains the quality of the image without the need for special client-side software.

09-18-2014

Alan R. Hopkins, Los Angeles, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130125676

RADIO FREQUENCY TRANSPARENT THERMAL WINDOW - A radio-frequency transparent window having internal conduits for the passage of cooling fluid is configured for simulating a highly uniform thermal environment for testing a device intended for use in space. The device to be tested is placed within a chamber in which a vacuum condition is maintained by a radio-frequency transparent pressure window under a pressure seal. Within the chamber, the thermal window is positioned adjacent, but not in contact with, the pressure window. A radio frequency signal is capable of passing directly through both the thermal window and the pressure window to permit communication with the device being tested within the housing. The thermal window is not in contact with the device so there in no conduction of heat from the device. Radiant heat transfer may occur from the device to the thermal window.

05-23-2013

Ben Barrett Hopkins, Los Angeles, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130216997

Methods and Systems for Detection of Microorganisms - Disclosed are methods and systems for the isolation and detection of microbes from a sample. The use of binding agents for isolation of a microbe of interest from a sample are described. In certain embodiments, the methods use ribosome-based and/or bacteriophage-based amplification of the signal in detection of bacteria and other microorganisms. For example, embodiments of the present invention can achieve total amplification of at least 10,000 from a single infected cell.

08-22-2013

20130217049

Methods and Systems for Signal Amplification of Bioassays - Disclosed herein are methods and systems for the detection of an analyte of interest by an amplified assay. The method and systems of the invention utilize the high specificity of biomolecules that have been coupled to a solid support to further amplify a signal produced by the interaction of a binding agent with the analyte of interest as a means to detect low levels of the analyte of interest present in a sample. In certain embodiments, for immunochemical (for example, ELISA or RIA) or immunofluorescence assays in which a protein to be identified is bound directly or through capture antibodies to a passivated surface, amplification of ˜10,000-fold can be achieved.

08-22-2013

Benjamin Edmund Hopkins, Los Angeles, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130175426

MULTI-MODE HOLDER FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A stand for an electronic device such as a mobile phone retains the electronic device by the device being slid between a front surface and at least four retention points. Some versions have four retention points in essentially a square pattern thus allowing the device to be slid into a retaining position in two distinct orthogonal directions. This provides for both a portrait and a landscape support configuration. Some embodiments have a leg that also acts as a hook or a clip.

07-11-2013

Chistopher J. Hopkins, Auburn, CA US

Chris Hopkins, Burlingame, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20110004668

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SYNCHRONIZING A SERVER AND AN ON-DEMAND DATABASE SERVICE - In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for synchronizing a server and an on-demand database service. These mechanisms and methods for synchronizing a server and an on-demand database service can enable embodiments to synchronize a larger amount of data. The ability of embodiments to provide such feature can enable more effective synchronization of a user-level sharing entity database with a multi-user on-demand database service.

01-06-2011

20120233354

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SYNCHRONIZING A SERVER AND AN ON-DEMAND DATABASE SERVICE - In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for synchronizing a server and an on-demand database service. These mechanisms and methods for synchronizing a server and an on-demand database service can enable embodiments to synchronize a larger amount of data. The ability of embodiments to provide such feature can enable more effective synchronization of a user-level sharing entity database with a multi-user on-demand database service.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SYNCHRONIZING A SERVER AND AN ON-DEMAND DATABASE SERVICE - In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for synchronizing a server and an on-demand database service. These mechanisms and methods for synchronizing a server and an on-demand database service can enable embodiments to synchronize a larger amount of data. The ability of embodiments to provide such feature can enable more effective synchronization of a user-level sharing entity database with a multi-user on-demand database service.

09-04-2014

Christopher D. Hopkins, San Francisco, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20100100367

OFFLINE SIMULATION OF ONLINE SESSION BETWEEN CLIENT AND SERVER - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

04-22-2010

20100325089

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SYNCHRONIZING DATA - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

12-23-2010

20100325174

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SIMULATING AN ONLINE SESSION - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

12-23-2010

20120158833

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SIMULATING AN ONLINE SESSION - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. in an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

06-21-2012

20120158909

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SIMULATING AN ONLINE SESSION - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used In order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

06-21-2012

Christopher D. Hopkins, San Mateo, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130238692

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SIMULATING AN ONLINE SESSION - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

09-12-2013

20130238693

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SIMULATING AN ONLINE SESSION - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

09-12-2013

20130239007

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SIMULATING AN ONLINE SESSION - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

09-12-2013

20130246351

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SIMULATING AN ONLINE SESSION - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

09-19-2013

20130246483

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SIMULATING AN ONLINE SESSION - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

09-19-2013

20130254267

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SIMULATING AN ONLINE SESSION - A method and system for conducting an offline session simulating an online session between a client and server in a network environment. The client imports data and functional logic from the server prior to going offline. The imported functional logic is embedded into a format or document that is capable of being interpreted and performed by the local interface at the client that is used to interact with server during an online session. Whether offline or online, the user utilizes the same local interface at the client to transmit instructions to the functional logic in order to manipulate the data. In an offline session, such instructions cause the imported and embedded functional logic to execute, thereby manipulating the data that is imported at the client. Known synchronization methods may also be used in order to maintain consistency and coherency between the imported data at the client and the database at the server.

09-26-2013

Christopher J. Hopkins, Auburn, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20110047265

Computer Implemented Method for Identifying Risk Levels for Minors - A computer system is configured to monitor and analyze the use of a client device by a minor and compute a risk for that minor. Examples of client devices include personal computers, laptops, cellular phones, “smart phones”, and other personal electronic devices. The analysis includes receiving text blocks from the client, processing the text block to discover “hit strings”, compute risk scores for the hit strings, and then to compute an overall risk score for the minor. A hit string is a string of characters such as a word or phrase that is indicative of a risk to the minor such as depression, “cyber bullying”, or an “adult predator”.

02-24-2011

David Allen Hopkins, Elk Grove, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20090218769

DART BOARD WITH DIGITAL TARGET DISPLAY RING (DTDR) - The present invention features a dart board comprising a digital target display ring (DTDR) surrounding a target area. The DTDR is operatively connected to a controller with a microprocessor, wherein said microprocessor is configured to (a) receive an input signal from an input device when the input device is actuated, and (b) generate an output signal to the DTDR for the DTDR to display a unique graphic according to pre-programmed commands for the actuated input device.

09-03-2009

Deborah Lynne Hopkins, Berkeley, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20080271537

METHOD AND SYSTEM HAVING ULTRASONIC SENSOR MOVABLE BY TRANSLATION DEVICE FOR ULTRASONIC PROFILING OF WELD SAMPLES - A system for ultrasonic profiling of a weld sample includes a carriage movable in opposite first and second directions. An ultrasonic sensor is coupled to the carriage to move over the sample as the carriage moves. An encoder determines the position of the carriage to determine the position of the sensor. A spring is connected at one end of the carriage. Upon the carriage being moved in the first direction toward the spring such that the carriage and the sensor are at a beginning position and the spring is compressed the spring decompresses to push the carriage back along the second direction to move the carriage and the sensor from the beginning position to an ending position. The encoder triggers the sensor to take the ultrasonic measurements of the sample when the sensor is at predetermined positions while the sensor moves over the sample between the beginning and positions.

11-06-2008

Derek L. Hopkins, Tustin, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130334088

Chewing Gum Disposal Container - A chewing gum disposal container is provided as simple, easy to use, and convenient apparatus for disposing used gum in areas where traditional methods of gum disposal are not readily available. The apparatus is provided as an envelope that forms an inner chamber. The inner chamber is utilized for receiving used chewing gum and is lined with an antimicrobial layer that reduces the transmission of infectious disease. The envelope utilizes a front section and a rear section in order to form the inner chamber. The front section provides a top flap that seals the inner chamber. Additionally the front section provides a visual identifier for distinguishing the particular apparatus.

12-19-2013

Gary D. Hopkins, Milpitas, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20120028321

High Solids Fermentation for Synthesis of Polyhydroxyalkanoates From Gas Substrates - Production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) is performed by delivering substrates such as methane in gas phase during a high solids fermentation. Microorganisms are grown under balanced conditions, then gas phase substrates are delivered under unbalanced conditions to produce PHA granules inside the cells. The cells containing these granules are lysed and the bioplastic powder recovered. The balanced phase growth may occur in submerged liquid cultures or attached as biofilms to a surface.

02-02-2012

Janet E. Hopkins, Cathedral City, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20090078735

Hand held hemming device - A hand-held hemming mechanism consisting of a operating and stapling mechanism. The stapling mechanism consists of a hammer assembly, operated by a bar connected to a handle. The staples are held in place by the body, a pair of staple hold down assemblies, and the pusher plate. The staples are advanced by a compression spring mounted behind the pusher plate and contained in the rear of the body. A range of staple heights can be accommodated by this construction. A cover with measuring marks covers this upper portion of the invention. This cover also determines the amount of opening allowed for adding or replacing staples. The crimping is provided by an anvil mounted on a lower bar. This anvil has two different crimping slots for the range of staples used. There are two support bars than can be used with this device. One is configured for thin to medium thickness material that has a short hem. A second support bar is “u” shaped to provide a material accumulation for hems that are far longer. This “u” shaped bar is also used for thick material, no matter where the hem is. The support bar in use is mounted on pins that are permanently attached to a support bar actuator, which has a handle mounted to it. The anvil is machined in such a way so it is capable of being used with all staple heights and both support bars. The operating mechanism is power by using a scissor like hand motion which rotates both the upper and lower bars around a pivot pin thus forcing the staple into the material and crimping in the anvil. A wide variety of staples of different materials and colors can be used.

03-26-2009

Jeff Hopkins, Valencia, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20100104054

DIRECTIONAL DIVERSITY RECEIVE SYSTEM - Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a directional diversity receive system. The system may comprise a plurality of antennas attached to and fixed with respect to a frame. The system may further comprise a steerable antenna attached to and moveable with respect to the frame. The system may be encapsulated by a cover and may be configured for relocation as an integrated module.

04-29-2010

20110080980

MULTI-FEED DIVERSITY RECEIVE SYSTEM AND METHOD - Embodiments disclosed herein relate to diversity receive systems and methods. An antenna system may comprise a reflector and a plurality of feed antennas configured to receive a wireless signal from a common source with directional diversity. A receive system may comprise such antenna system in combination with a plurality of receivers and/or demodulators, and in combination with a combiner and/or controller.

04-07-2011

20140070993

SIGNAL TRACKING AND ANTENNA POSITIONING SYSTEM - Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a communication system. Particularly disclosed are systems and methods for locating and tracking radio frequency signals and for automatically positioning an antenna to receive a desired radio frequency signal. The system may comprise an antenna module comprising a receive antenna and a plurality of tracking antennas, a base, one or more motors configured to rotate the antenna module and/or tilt the receive antenna relative to the base, and processing circuitry. The processing circuitry may include a spectrum analyzer and may be configured to receive inputs from the tracking antennas and provide outputs to control the motors. The method may comprise selecting a center frequency for signal reception, receiving a signal at or near the center frequency at a plurality of tracking antennas, detecting the strength of the signal at the tracking antennas, determining whether the strength of the signal is equal at each of the tracking antennas, moving the plurality of tracking antennas and the receive antenna if the strength of the signal is not equal at the tracking antennas, and repeating the steps of detecting, determining, and moving until the strength of the signal at the tracking antennas is equal.

03-13-2014

20140341325

DIRECTIONAL DIVERSITY RECEIVE SYSTEM - Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a directional diversity receive system. The system may comprise a plurality of antennas attached to and fixed with respect to a frame. The system may further comprise a steerable antenna attached to and moveable with respect to the frame. The system may be encapsulated by a cover and may be configured for relocation as an integrated module.

11-20-2014

Patent applications by Jeff Hopkins, Valencia, CA US

John S. Hopkins, Gilroy, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20110149706

HIGH SENSITIVITY GLIDE SENSOR USING FRICTIONAL HEATING - A tool for testing a magnetic disk for use in a magnetic disk drive. The tool detects surface defects or asperities by detecting a change in electrical resistance corresponding to a temperature change in a thermally sensitive layer. The apparatus includes a slider body having a thermally insulating layer formed on an air bearing surface of the slider body and a thermal sensor layer formed on the thermally insulating layer. The thermally insulating layer prevents thermal heat spikes in the thermal sensor layer (such as resulting from contact with an asperity) from dissipating quickly into the slider body itself. The thermal sensor layer is a material that exhibits a change in electrical resistance in response to a change in temperature and is preferably a PTC thermistor material which exhibits a large change in electrical resistance when a transition temperature has been reached.

06-23-2011

John Stephen Hopkins, Gilroy, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20100027152

SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DIRECT HEAD-DISK CLEARANCE MEASUREMENT BY SLIDER VIBRATION AND FLY HEIGHT CALIBRATION - A method models and calibrates the fly height of a slider above the disk for disk drives. The calibration scheme uses the Wallace spacing loss equation and laser doppler velocimetry to predict fly height and detect the actual fly height of the slider. The slider is vibrated at selected resonances, such as by capacitive coupling to the disk, and the fly height is gradually reduced. In one version, contact between the slider and disk may be detected using an arm electronics sensor. The amplitude of mean-to-peak, vibration detection is used as an indication of the actual fly height and to calibrate the modeled fly height.

02-04-2010

20100142344

METHOD FOR DIRECT HEAD-DISK CLEARANCE MEASUREMENT BY SLIDER VIBRATION AND FLY HEIGHT CALIBRATION - A method models and calibrates the fly height of a slider above the disk for disk drives. The calibration scheme uses the Wallace spacing loss equation and laser doppler velocimetry to predict fly height and detect the actual fly height of the slider. The slider is vibrated at selected resonances, such as by capacitive coupling to the disk, and the fly height is gradually reduced. In one version, contact between the slider and disk may be detected using an arm electronics sensor. The amplitude of mean-to-peak, vibration detection is used as an indication of the actual fly height and to calibrate the modeled fly height.

06-10-2010

20110026167

REDUCING SLIDER BOUNCE IN A HARD DISK DRIVE - Reducing slider bounce within a hard disk drive. A force is received at a first material while the first material is in contact with a disk of a hard disk drive; the first material comprising a portion that is flexible in a first direction and is substantially non-flexible in a second direction. The first direction is a direction that is normal to the disk and the second direction is a direction that is parallel to a surface of the disk. The force is substantially absorbed by the portion that is flexible to reduce the force associated with interaction between the first material and the disk, thereby reducing slider bounce within the hard disk drive

02-03-2011

Patent applications by John Stephen Hopkins, Gilroy, CA US

Jonathan Hopkins, Livermore, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130243997

LATTICE-STRUCTURES AND CONSTRUCTS WITH DESIGNED THERMAL EXPANSION COEFFICIENTS - A thermal expansion-managed lattice structure having a plurality of unit cells each having flexure bearing-mounted tabs supported on a base and actuated by thermal expansion of an actuator having a thermal expansion coefficient greater than the base and arranged so that the tab is inwardly displaced into a base cavity. The flexure bearing-mounted tabs are connected to other flexure-bearing-mounted tabs of adjacent unit cells so that the adjacent unit cells are spaced from each other to accommodate thermal expansion of individual unit cells while maintaining a desired bulk thermal expansion coefficient of the lattice structure as a whole.

09-19-2013

20130246018

METHOD OF SYNTHESIZING AND ANALYZING THERMALLY ACTUATED LATTICE ARCHITECTURES AND MATERIALS USING FREEDOM AND CONSTRAINT TOPOLOGIES - A method using freedom and constraint topologies to synthesize and analyze the microstructure of a material with a desired thermal expansion coefficient. The method includes identifying tab kinematics of a design space sector that will produce a desired bulk material property, selecting a freedom space that contains a desired tab motion identified from the tab kinematics identified, selecting flexible constraint elements from within a complementary constraint space of the freedom space selected, and selecting actuation elements from within an actuation space generated from a system generated from the flexible constraint element selection.

09-19-2013

Jonathan B. Hopkins, Palo Alto, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20120194508

ARRAY DIRECTED LIGHT-FIELD DISPLAY FOR AUTOSTEREOSCOPIC VIEWING - Autostereoscopic display. The display includes an array of elements from which light emanates, the elements being rotatable about two orthogonal axes by microcontrollers. An eye tracker is provided for determining the location in three dimensions of at least one eye viewing the array. The microcontrollers, using information from the eye tracker, rotate the elements to mimic a concave surface to deliver light to the eye. It is preferred that the elements are mirrors and the display further includes a projector for projecting an image on the array for reflection to the eye. The elements themselves may include means for generating light rather than reflecting light.

08-02-2012

Larry Kent Hopkins, Escondido, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20090076660

PC-Programmed Irrigation Control System - A free-standing field irrigation controller is selectively programmed by a personal computer over a radio link. The computer is equipped with software that displays a screen with seven horizontal time bands representing one day each, arranged vertically to display one week's time. Box icons representing watering settings for a plurality of zones can be dragged and dropped onto the time bands, copied and modified thereon as desired, to form a freely selectable watering schedule. Other selectable screens allow odd-days or even-days watering, sophisticated interval watering, global watering time adjustment, and a variety of manual functions. Selectable portions of the main screen can be enlarged as desired. Based on the selected schedule, the computer calculates and displays the monthly cost of water. Selected zones can be temporarily disabled to deal with weather or maintenance issues. A handheld global shut-off and manual watering remote and/or a separate radio-linked computer may be used in field maintenance.

Maria Hopkins, San Diego, CA US

Mark A. Hopkins, Mission Viejo, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20090118680

Automatic gas filling consumable - An improved consumable for use in a fluid/gas exchange in vitreoretinal surgery. The consumable includes a syringe having a barrel with a first opening for receiving a retinal tamponading gas, a stopper slidably disposed within and fluidly sealed to the barrel, a plug assembly, and a plunger. The stopper has a relief valve for venting air and retinal tamponading gas to atmosphere via a hollow bore in the plunger.

05-07-2009

20090121838

Smart Connector System For Surgical Machine - A smart connector system includes a machine connector disposed on a face of a surgical machine, an illumination ring located on the face of the surgical machine and disposed around a periphery of the machine connector, an RFID reader antenna located in close proximity to the machine connector and the face of the surgical machine, and an accessory connector adapted to couple with the machine connector. The accessory connector has an RFID tag antenna and is capable of attaching a tool to the surgical machine. When the accessory connector is brought within close proximity to the machine connector, a communications connection is established between the RFID tag antenna and the RFID reader antenna.

Priming a Microsurgical System - A microsurgical system capable of priming its aspiration circuit using a pressurized gas source, a pressurized infusion fluid source, an aspiration chamber fluidly coupled to the pressurized gas source and the pressurized infusion fluid source, and a computer.

10-29-2009

20100030168

Aspiration control via flow or impedance - A microsurgical system capable of controlling aspiration and detecting an occlusion via monitoring a change in either suction flow rate or suction impedance.

SURGICAL CONSOLE - An ophthalmic surgical system for filling a syringe with a retinal tamponading gas is disclosed. The system includes a surgical console having a user interface, a computer, first and second bottles containing pressurized retinal tamponading gases, and a port for fluidly coupling to an automatic gas filling consumable including a syringe. A user selects a particular retinal tamponading gas via the user interface, and the system fills the syringe.

08-21-2014

Patent applications by Mark A. Hopkins, Mission Viejo, CA US

Mark Alan Hopkins, Mission Viejo, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20110144675

Systems and Methods for Dynamic Pneumatic Valve Driver - In various embodiments, a pneumatic system valve for a surgical console may be controlled by a controller configured to adjust a valve duty cycle (VDC) of the valve to reduce a difference between the valve's differential pressure and a desired differential pressure. In some embodiments, average differential pressures may be detected and relayed from a pressure sensor, coupled to one or more ports of the valve, to the controller. The controller may compare the measured average differential pressure against the desired average differential pressure (e.g., received from the user). The controller may then determine a modified VDC to reduce a difference between the desired average differential pressure and the measured average differential pressure. In some embodiments, the desired average differential pressure may be determined based on input received from a user of the surgical console.

06-16-2011

Michael Stephen Hopkins, Mountain View, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20090222731

MIXING INPUT CHANNEL SIGNALS TO GENERATE OUTPUT CHANNEL SIGNALS - Techniques for mixing multiple input channel signals into multiple output channel signals are provided. A graphical user interface (GUI), which includes multiple indicators, is displayed. The input channel signals are mixed to produce multiple output channel signals. The mixing is performed based on the distance between the indicators' positions in the GUI. According to one embodiment of the invention, the mixing is also performed based on the angle formed between the indicators. Thus, the extent to which an input channel signal is carried by an output channel signal is, in one embodiment of the invention, a function of both the distance between the indicators and an angle formed by the indicators in the GUI.

09-03-2009

20120030626

Hybrid Knob/Slider Control - A control object including a knob element is displayed in a GUI. A first user input can be detected that indicates selection of the knob element. In response to the first user input, the knob element can be visually augmented. The visual augmentation can include displaying text labels of range limit values and a slider element with the knob element. The slider element can include a fill bar to indicate the current value of the knob element. A second input can be a linear motion on or near the slider control. In response to the second user input, both the fill bar of the slider element and a fill portion of the knob element can be visually augmented to indicate the change in the value. A cursor image of a pointing device providing the second input can be hidden at least during the receiving of the second input.

02-02-2012

Miles Hopkins, Redwood City, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20110212691

Paddle-integrated wireless controller - Wireless transmitters are integrated with manual marine-propulsion implements associated with small watercraft (paddles, oars, poles, and the like). The transmitters are controlled by hand-operated actuators. The actuators are designed to be manipulated without looking and positioned within convenient reach of an operator's normal hand position on the implement. A corresponding wireless receiver on a target device enables the transmitter signal to control the device. Thus, an operator of a small watercraft can control a useful target device without first shipping or otherwise securing the manual implement, and may simultaneously continue to manually propel or steer the watercraft with the implement. Application examples include a propulsion-assist motor on a stand-up paddled (SUP) surfboard.

09-01-2011

Natascha Hopkins, Beverly Hills, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20120142252

Sports bra with integral fitted sauna suit - A variety of unique aerobic garment structures for use in warm weather or high temperature conditions is provided. The garment structure comprises a shirt portion having a body portion with an integral sports bra. The garment structure may take the form of a fitted sauna suit with a base skirt having a zipper or other closure for securement. Preferably, the sports bra comprises a second layer of fitted polymeric material such as lycra for increased support of the breasts and is cut upward to create a moderate lift and extra security for the wearer. A water resistant material with elastic properties such neoprene flap may be used for the garment structure, or portions thereof to promote water weight loss through perspiration and to provide for a comfortable fit for the wearer. Optionally, a moisture-absorbent material lining on the sports bra portion or other areas of the garment may be included to absorb excess moisture and for increased comfort. A pants portion in the form of shorts or longer leggings may also be made of a base fabric with a trunk portion and legs. Each of the shirt portion and pants portion may include styled openings for receiving the arms and legs of the wearer. Accordingly, the invention allows the advantageous modality of donning and wearing a single integrated garment which provides support, comfort, freedom of motion to promote accelerated water weight loss.

06-07-2012

20130130591

ACTIVE WEAR APPAREL - A clothing is disclosed and includes a top configured to cover a user's upper body, the top including a breast area configured to cover a user's breasts; a pair of bra cups embedded into the top and positioned on the breast area, the bra cups configured to support the user's breasts; at least one elastic band positioned adjacent to the bra cups and on the breast area, the elastic band configured to aid the bra cups in supporting to the user's breasts; and a perspiration promoting material positioned within the top and configured to cause the user to perspire.

05-23-2013

R. David Hopkins, Hayward, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20090176450

MULTIPLE ACCESS OVER PROXIMITY COMMUNICATION - A multiple access Proximity Communication system in which electrical elements on an integrated circuit chip provide the multiplexing of multiple signals to a single electrical receiving element on another chip. Multiple pads formed on one chip and receiving separate signals may be capacitively coupled to one large pad on the other chip. Multiple inductive coils on one chip may be magnetically coupled to one large coil on another chip or inductive coils on three or more chips may be used for either transmitting or receiving. The multiplexing may be based on time, frequency, or code.

07-09-2009

20090279571

DIVERSITY PROXIMITY COMMUNICATION - A diversity proximity communication system formed on two juxtaposed chips, one having a two-dimensional array of transmit elements, the other having a two-dimensional array of receive elements. The receive and transmit elements need not be aligned and may have nominal alignment of one transmit element overlapping the corners of four receive elements. The elements may be electrical pads capacitively coupled across the interface. Signals of four different multiplexing groups, e.g., time-multiplexed, are supplied to transmitting elements in a 2×2 array. Signals from four receive elements in a 2×2 array are amplified, combined, and demultiplexed for the selected multiplexing group. The gains for the four signals to be combined are differentially controlled to increase the signal-to-noise ratio. The amplification may be determined by the overlap between each of the receive elements and the transmit element of the selected multiplexing group.

Robert Hopkins, Hayward, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20120007699

APPARATUS FOR REDUCING POWER CONSUMPTION BY USING CAPACITIVE COUPLING TO PERFORM MAJORITY DETECTION - One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that reduces power consumption by using capacitive coupling to perform a majority detection operation. The system starts by driving a plurality of signals onto a plurality of driven wires. The signals are then fed from each driven wire through a corresponding coupling capacitor to a single majority detection wire. Next, the system feeds signal on the majority detection wire and a bias voltage to a differential receiver. The output of the differential receiver switches if the signal on the majority-detection wire switches relative to the bias voltage. The system then uses the output of the differential receiver to optimize the signals from the plurality of driven wires for transmission across a long signal route. Optimizing the transmission of signals reduces the power consumed by the computer system.

01-12-2012

Robert D. Hopkins, Hayward, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20080228951

RECONFIGURABLE CIRCUITS - The present disclosure involves reconfigurable circuits that include an asynchronous data path with asynchronous control and at least one logic element coupled with the asynchronous data path that allows the circuit to be configured to more than one logical implementation through data and control token. In one particular example, the asynchronous data path with asynchronous control includes an interconnection of memory elements, such as latches, with each memory element including a corresponding asynchronous control element, such as a GasP element. One or more logical elements are coupled at one or more points of the data path, such coupling may involve feed-back, feed-forward, or combinations of both, and may include external data connections. Through distribution of data items and control tokens to the asynchronous data path with asynchronous control, the fixed logical coupling to the data path may be reconfigured to provide various logical arrangements.

09-18-2008

20080231308

Sub-Sampling of Weakly-Driven Nodes - A method and apparatus for performing on-chip voltage sampling of a weakly-driven node of a semiconductor device are disclosed. In some embodiments, the node is a floating node or is capacitively-driven. In some embodiments, it is involved in proximity-based communication. Sampling the node may include isolating the signal to be sampled using a source-follower amplifier before passing it to the sampling circuit. Sampling the node may include biasing the node to a desired voltage using a leaky transistor or other biasing circuit. In some embodiments, the biasing circuit may also be used to calibrate the sampler by coupling one or more calibration voltages to the node in place of a biasing voltage and measuring the sampler output. The sampler may be suitable for sub-sampling high frequency signals to produce a time-expanded, lower frequency version of the signals. The output of the sampler may be a current communicated off-chip for testing.

09-25-2008

20090315624

ACTIVE RESISTOR USED IN A FEEDBACK AMPLIFIER PARTICULARLY USEFUL FOR PROXIMITY COMMUNICATION - An active resistor and its use in a negative feedback amplifier allow wide voltage swings on the input and output signals. One embodiment includes parallel pass-gate MOS transistors of opposite conductivity types connected between the input and output nodes. Bootstrapping transistors are connected between the gates of the pass-gate transistors and respective bias voltages. Coupling capacitors are connected between the gates and the output node. Additional coupling capacitors may be connected between the gates and the input node to make the resistor symmetric. In other embodiments, only one pass-gate transistor is used.

12-24-2009

20100060299

DETERMINING CHIP SEPARATION BY COMPARING COUPLING CAPACITANCES - A semiconductor die includes proximity connectors proximate to a surface of the semiconductor die. This semiconductor die is configured to communicate signals with another semiconductor die via proximity communication through one or more of the proximity connectors. In particular, the proximity connectors include a first group of proximity connectors that is configured to facilitate determining a first separation between the semiconductor die and the other semiconductor die by comparing coupling capacitances between the semiconductor die and the other semiconductor die. Note that the first group of proximity connectors includes a first proximity connector and a second proximity connector, and the second proximity connector at least partially encloses an in-plane outer edge of the first proximity connector.

RECEIVE CIRCUIT FOR CONNECTORS WITH VARIABLE COMPLEX IMPEDANCE - Embodiments of a circuit for use with an inter-chip connection that has a variable complex impedance (which can be conductive, capacitive or both), a system that includes the circuit, and a communication technique are described. This inter-chip connection may be formed between a microspring or an anisotropic film and a metal connector on or proximate to a surface of a chip. Moreover, the circuit may mitigate signal distortion associated with the variable complex impedance. For example, the circuit may include an internal impedance that is electrically coupled in series with the metal connector, and that has an impedance which dominates the variable complex impedance over a range of operating frequencies. Separately or additionally, the circuit may be adapted to correct for the signal distortion.

10-21-2010

20110089540

SEMICONDUCTOR DIE WITH INTEGRATED ELECTRO-STATIC DISCHARGE DEVICE - A semiconductor die is described. This semiconductor die includes an electro-static discharge (ESD) device with a metal component coupled to an input-output (I/O) pad, and coupled to a ground voltage via a signal line. Moreover, adjacent edges of the metal component and the I/O pad are separated by a spacing that defines an ESD gap. When a field-emission or ionization current flows across the ESD gap, the metal component provides a discharge path to the ground voltage for transient ESD signals. Furthermore, the ESD gap is at least partially enclosed so that there is gas in the ESD gap.

04-21-2011

20110248750

HIGH-BANDWIDTH ON-CHIP COMMUNICATION - Some embodiments of the present invention provide techniques and systems for high-bandwidth on-chip communication. During operation, the system receives an input voltage signal which is to be transmitted over a wire in a chip. The system then generates one or more modified voltage signals from the input voltage signal. Next, the system drives each of the voltage signals (i.e., the input voltage signal and the one or more modified voltage signals) through a respective capacitor. The system then combines the output signals from the capacitors to obtain a combined voltage signal. Next, the system transmits the combined voltage signal over the wire. The transmitted signals can then be received by a hysteresis receiver which is coupled to the wire through a coupling capacitor.

10-13-2011

20120114032

EQUALIZATION IN PROXIMITY COMMUNICATION - A device includes a semiconductor die having a surface, a plurality of proximity connectors proximate to the surface, and a circuit coupled to at least one of the plurality of proximity connectors. The semiconductor die is configured to communicate voltage-mode signals through capacitive coupling using one or more of the plurality of proximity connectors. The circuit also includes a filter with a capacitive-summing junction to equalize the signals.

05-10-2012

20120229941

SEMICONDUCTOR DIE WITH INTEGRATED ELECTRO-STATIC DISCHARGE DEVICE - A semiconductor die is described. This semiconductor die includes an electro-static discharge (ESD) device with a metal component coupled to an input-output (I/O) pad, and coupled to a ground voltage via a signal line. Moreover, adjacent edges of the metal component and the I/O pad are separated by a spacing that defines an ESD gap. When a field-emission or ionization current flows across the ESD gap, the metal component provides a discharge path to the ground voltage for transient ESD signals. Furthermore, the ESD gap is at least partially enclosed so that there is gas in the ESD gap.

09-13-2012

Patent applications by Robert D. Hopkins, Hayward, CA US

Robert D. Hopkins, Mountain View, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130154608

DETERMINING ALIGNMENT USING A SPATIALLY VARYING CHARGE DISTRIBUTION - A semiconductor die is described. This semiconductor die includes a driver, and a spatial alignment transducer that is electrically coupled to the driver and which is proximate to a surface of the semiconductor die. The driver establishes a spatially varying electric charge distribution in at least one direction in the spatial alignment transducer, thereby facilitating determination of a spatial alignment in more than one direction between the semiconductor die and another semiconductor die. In particular, a spatial alignment sensor proximate to the surface of the other semiconductor die may detect an electrical field (or an associated electrostatic potential) associated with the spatially varying electric charge distribution. This detected electric field may allow the vertical spacing between the surfaces of the semiconductor dies and/or an angular alignment of the semiconductor dies to be determined.

06-20-2013

Robert David Hopkins, Foster City, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20140052726

HARDWARE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE AGGREGATION/GROUP BY OPERATION: HASH-TABLE METHOD - Techniques are described for performing grouping and aggregation operations. In one embodiment, a request is received to aggregate data grouped by a first column. In response to receiving the request, a group value in a row of a first column is mapped to an address. A pointer is stored for a first group at a first location identified by the address. The pointer identifies a second location of a set of aggregation data for the first group. An aggregate value included in the set of aggregation data is updated based on a value in the row of a second column.

02-20-2014

Robert David Hopkins, Hayward, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20090322377

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SIZING FLOW CONTROL BUFFERS - A system that includes a first buffer and a second buffer, wherein the first buffer and the second buffer are connected to the same input, wherein a size of the first buffer is defined by a distance of the first buffer from the input and a transfer rate of data, wherein a size of the second buffer is defined by a distance of the second buffer from the input and the transfer rate of data, and wherein the distance between the first buffer and the input is different from the distance between the second buffer and the input.

12-31-2009

20100171554

OFFSET CANCELLATION FOR DC ISOLATED NODES - Offset voltages developed on floating nodes on inputs to high-performance amplifiers that are DC isolated from the data signals input to amplifiers are cancelled by connecting a highly resistive element between the input node and a predetermined potential, particularly useful in proximity communication systems in which two chips are connected through capacitive or inductive coupling circuits formed jointly in the two chips. The resistive element may be an off MOS transistor connected between the node and a desired bias voltage or a MOS transistor with its gate and drain connected to the potential. Multiple bias voltages may be distributed to all receivers and locally selected by a multiplexer for application to one or two input nodes of the receiver. The receiver output can also serve as a predetermined potential when the resistive element has a long time constant compared to the data rate or the resistive element is non-linear.

07-08-2010

20100329390

ADAPTIVE OFFSET-COMPENSATING DECISION-FEEDBACK RECEIVER - A circuit that receives input signals from a transmitter via proximity communication, such as capacitively coupled proximity communication, is described. Because proximity communication may block DC content, the circuit may restore the DC content of input signals. In particular, a refresh circuit in the circuit may short inputs of the circuit to each other at least once per clock cycle (which sets a null value). Furthermore, a feedback circuit ensures that, if there is a signal transition in the input signals during a current clock cycle, it is passed through to an output node of the circuit. On the other hand, if there is no signal transition in the input signals during the current clock cycle, the feedback circuit may select the appropriate output value on the output node based on the output value during the immediately preceding clock cycle.

12-30-2010

Samuel A. Hopkins, Foster City, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20150030025

Management of Multiple Network Routes - Managing network communications between network hosts that have multiple physical network ports coupled to the network. A first host broadcasts address resolution requests from first physical network ports of the first host and receives responses to the address resolution requests from second physical network ports of a second host. The responses include respective connection bandwidths of the second physical network ports. The first host generates connectivity information describing a plurality of available communication routes in the network between first physical network ports of the first host and second physical network ports of the second host based on the responses, from which a subset of available communication routes can be selected for data transfer.

01-29-2015

Shane Edward Hopkins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20120220021

HERBICIDE RESISTANT ORGANISMS - Disclosed herein are transformed non-vascular photosynthetic organisms that are herbicide resistant, nucleotides and vectors useful in conducting such transformations, and transformed strains produced by such transformations.

08-30-2012

20120288918

SALT TOLERANT ORGANISMS - Disclosed herein are transformed non-vascular photosynthetic organisms that are salt tolerant, nucleotides and vectors useful in conducting such transformations, and transformed strains produced by such transformations.

HEDGEHOG INHIBITORS - Described herein are compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods for the inhibition of Hedgehog signaling. Said compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods have utility in the treatment of human and veterinary disease and disorders.

01-10-2013

20130040983

RAF KINASE INHIBITORS - Described herein are compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods for the inhibition of RAF kinae mediated signaling. Said compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods have utility in the treatment of human disease and disorders.

02-14-2013

20140221374

RAF KINASE INHIBITORS - Described herein are compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods for the inhibition of RAF kinase mediated signaling. Said compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods have utility in the treatment of human disease and disorders.

Stephanie Ann Hopkins, Poway, CA US

Steve Hopkins, Union City, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130307646

Adaptive Equalization of Impedance Mismatched Card-Edge Connections - A method includes tapping power from a broadband RF input, filtering the tapped power with a plurality of band pass filters, measuring the power filtered by each of the plurality of band pass filters and controlling an adaptive equalizer circuit to flatten excessive non-linear frequency response from the broadband RF input as a function of measured power filtered at each of the plurality of band pass filters. An apparatus, includes a broadband RF input, a plurality of band pass filters coupled to the broadband RF input, at least one power measurement circuit coupled to the plurality of band pass filters and an adaptive equalizer circuit coupled to the at least one power power measurement circuit and the plurality of band pass filters, wherein the at least one power measurement circuit provides control signals to the adaptive equalizer circuit as a function of measured power at each of the plurality of band pass files and wherein the adaptive equalizer circuit flattens excessive non-linear frequency response of the broadband RF input.

11-21-2013

20130308912

Blind Mate Optoelectronic Device - A method includes connecting a first end of an optoelectronic device with an electrical back plate including blind mating; and connecting a second end of the optoelectronic device with an optical back plate including blind mating. An apparatus includes an optoelectronic device including a first end having an electrical interface for blind mating and a second end having an optical interface for blind mating.

11-21-2013

20130308952

Small Form Factor, Pluggable, Analog Optical Transmitter and Host Module - A method includes hosting a plurality of transmitter modules with a host module, where the host module includes common circuitry shared by the plurality of pluggable transmitter modules. An apparatus includes a host module; and a plurality of transmitter modules coupled to the host module, where the host module includes common circuitry shared by the plurality of pluggable transmitter modules.

11-21-2013

20130308953

Universal Host Module for a Pluggable Optical Transmitter - A method includes tuning a host module to a reference module standard; and adjusting each of a plurality of pluggable optical modules coupled to the host module to mimic the reference module standard for a set of load conditions. An apparatus includes a host module tuned to a reference module standard; and a plurality of pluggable optical modules coupled to the host module, wherein each of the plurality of pluggable optical modules mimics the reference standard for a specific set of load conditions.

11-21-2013

Steven Hopkins, Pleasanton, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20140369689

Dynamic Wavelength Management using Bi-directional Communication for the prevention of Optical Beat Interference - Preventing optical beat interference includes dynamically managing an adjustable optical transmitter wavelength of each of a plurality of customer premises equipment, wherein each of the plurality of customer premises equipment is in bidirectional communication with a customer premises equipment controller. A bidirectional communication system includes a customer premises equipment controller; and a plurality of customer premises equipment coupled to the customer premises equipment controller, each of the plurality of customer premises equipment having an adjustable optical transmitter wavelength, wherein each of the plurality of customer premises equipment is in bidirectional communication with the customer premises equipment controller to prevent optical beat interference by dynamically managing the adjustable optical transmitter wavelength of each of the plurality of customer premises equipment.

12-18-2014

Susan Claire Hopkins, Half Moon Bay, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130253952

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT CUSTOMER WEB PORTAL - A system for managing medical equipment is described. The system includes an equipment tracking module to maintain equipment records corresponding to medical equipment that are shipped from a medical equipment manufacturer to a medical center. The system also includes a patient information tracking module to maintain patient records corresponding to patients of the medical center and to associate the patient records with the equipment records when the patients are equipped with the medical equipment. In addition, the system includes a mapping module to provide locations of medical facilities capable of providing support for the medical equipment for patients that have been discharged from the medical center. Other embodiments are also described.

09-26-2013

Susan Roberta Hopkins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20130338489

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF VENTILATION AND PERFUSION IN THE LUNG - Methods, devices, and systems are disclosed for implementing a fully quantitative non-injectable contrast proton MRI technique to measure spatial ventilation-perfusion (VA/Q) matching and spatial distribution of ventilation and perfusion. In one aspect, a method using MRI to characterize ventilation and perfusion in a lung includes acquiring an MR image of the lung having MR data in a voxel and obtaining a breathing frequency parameter, determining a water density value, a specific ventilation value, and a perfusion value in at least one voxel of the MR image based on the MR data and using the water density value to determine an air content value, and determining a ventilation-perfusion ratio value that is the product of the specific ventilation value, the air content value, the inverse of the perfusion value, and the breathing frequency.

12-19-2013

Timothy Hopkins, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA US

Patent application number

Description

Published

20140263570

SURGICAL STAPLER WITH PARTIAL POCKETS - A surgical stapler includes a jaw assembly at a distal end connected to a handle assembly that is configured to control the stapler and actuate the deployment of staples. The surgical stapler successfully eliminates intermediate caming portions commonly known as pushers that are located between the staples and a translating slider. The staples are located in pockets at an angle such that the base of the staple is parallel to an angled caming surface of the slider. The translating slider comes into direct contact with staples during deployment as the slider moves through each staple pocket where staples are partially supported by recesses along the slider pathway. The staples are deployed at an angle against the anvil surface. Because there are no pushers, a great deal of space is saved resulting in a much smaller diameter surgical stapler that is particularly suitable for laparoscopic stapling applications.